Call Us atBig rig trucks are boxy-shaped and do not drive like cars. Even when they do not have any cargo in the trailer, they are hard to handle and maneuver. When overloaded, these massive commercial vehicles become even more challenging to drive. Overloaded/overweight truck accidents in Bothell pose a serious risk of injury to anyone who encounters them. If an improperly loaded semi-truck hurt you or your loved one, you could seek monetary damages against the parties responsible for misloading the vehicle. A knowledgeable and experienced truck collision attorney could review your legal options with you.
Governmental Weight Limits on Trucks
The state and federal governments set strict limits on how much weight commercial vehicles can carry. Weight limits protect the infrastructure and durability of roads, ramps, bridges, and other structures. Heavier trucks put more pressure on road surfaces, causing more wear and tear, which can lead to additional and earlier road repairs. Larger trucks that weigh more also pose a safety risk to other people on the roads because trucks that carry a great deal of weight are harder to drive. They are generally much more difficult to turn and take longer to stop.
The weight limits vary depending on the type and makeup of the truck. Trucks with more axles are able to carry more weight. To ensure that trucks meet the standards, the Washington state government has various weigh stations on highways and also performs additional compliance checks. If a truck violates the weight restrictions, the truck’s driver could face penalties, such as the loss of their license after repeated violations. The trucking company and owner of the truck could also face fines and other penalties.
A determined attorney in Bothell could use the fact that the truck was in noncompliance with federal or state weight restrictions as evidence of negligence in a truck crash civil suit.
Dangers Posed by Overly Heavy Trucks
Overloaded trucks are hazardous to people for several reasons.
Harder to Control
Heavy trucks take longer to stop. They also accelerate down hills too fast and take longer to climb hills.
Rollover Risk
Overweight trucks do not have the right center of gravity. Trucks are already more prone to rolling over than most other types of vehicles, but overloading them increases that risk. Trying to make a sharp turn with an overloaded truck could cause the truck to roll over or enter into a jackknife.
Excessive Strain on a Truck’s Parts
Forcing a truck to operate with excess weight can lead to premature wear and tear on a truck’s parts. An overloaded truck’s tires and brakes are particularly at risk of failing due to the increased strain.
Danger to Roadways
An overly heavy truck could damage a critical road structure, such as an overpass or bridge, risking the lives of people on or around it.
A dedicated lawyer understands how dangerous overloaded trucks are and could work tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable for their wrongful actions after a crash in Bothell.
Talk to a Bothell Attorney After an Overloaded Truck Accident
Overloaded/overweight truck accidents in Bothell could be easily avoided with reasonable actions and due diligence. Unfortunately, some trucking companies are more concerned with making a profit than they are with protecting people. By allowing their trucks to carry excess cargo, trucking companies can make more money by delivering more cargo. However, this excess cargo can be dangerous.
If an overloaded truck caused an accident that hurt you, you could seek damages. Talk to a practiced legal team that could investigate and identify who is responsible.
